CHP Seeking Bogus Highway Mechanic Running Fix-It Scam

Related Tags:

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) — The California Highway Patrol is looking for a man posing as a mechanic who has duped stranded drivers out of hundreds of dollars and has cautioned anyone who breaks down on the highway.

CHP spokesperson Diana McDermot said two weeks ago, a man was posing as a CHP mechanic performing roadside assistance. While there is a Freeway Service Patrol that roams the freeway during commute hours clear clearing cars out of the way, she said they never ask you for money for parts.

“They can provide you with that little bit of extra gasoline to get you to a location where you can get gas and then they can also change your tire and get you on your way.” The suspect apparently informed people that they needed different parts for their vehicle in order to fix it. “He would obtain those parts for them if they were to provide him with the cash and of course he’d never return.”

McDermot said the CHP would never do anything like that, nor would the Freeway Service Patrol.

He’s gotten away with nearly $300 so far and the CHP said they know who he is, but won’t release his name until he’s in custody. Meanwhile, McDermot said don’t give money to anyone who’s offering to help you on the freeway.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)